MÁV acquisition of Swiss Stadler trains faces potential collapse

The planned acquisition of 93 used Stadler GTW electric multiple units from the Swiss operator Thurbo by MÁV appears to be stalled. According to manufacturer Stadler, a condition for the contract to take effect has not been met.

The Urban and Suburban Transport Association (VEKE) reports that the deal, signed last December, is facing significant hurdles. A primary point of contention is a maintenance agreement; the Hungarian side reportedly finds the terms unfavorable and disagrees on the location of the future service center.

Despite efforts by Transport Minister Dávid Vitézy to negotiate with Stadler executive Peter Spuhler, the deadline for the agreement has passed. If the procurement fails, experts warn that Hungary will face an extreme shortage of rolling stock, with no new vehicles expected to be delivered for several years beyond the existing Gysev IC and IC+ fleets.